Side by side
Put a few breeds side by side before you make up your mind.
Pick up to four. The URL updates as you go, so you can send this comparison to whoever you are arguing with.
| Breed |  Brussels Griffon |  Maltese |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Belgium | Malta and the central Mediterranean |
| Group | Toy | Toy |
| Size | Small | Small |
| Coat | Rough wiry coat or smooth short coat | Long, straight, silky white single coat with no undercoat |
| Weight | 3.5 to 6 kg | 3 to 4 kg |
| Height | 18 to 28 cm | 20 to 25 cm |
| Lifespan | 12 to 15 yrs | 12 to 15 yrs |
| Exercise need | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Affection | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Grooming needs | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Barking | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Good with children | 4/10 | 5/10 |
| Good with other dogs | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Trainability | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Prey drive | 4/10 | 2/10 |
| Copes alone | 2/10 | 2/10 |
| Drool | 1/10 | 1/10 |
| Shedding | 3/10 | 2/10 |
| Flat fit | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Running cost | €75 / month | €93 / month |
Brussels Griffon verdict
The bearded toy with a remarkably human face
Get one if
- · People at home most of the day
- · Retired owners or home workers
- · Adult households or families with older, gentle children
Think again if
- · Long hours alone
- · Busy homes with toddlers
- · Hot climates without air conditioning
Maltese verdict
A long lived, silky coated companion that demands daily combing and daily company in equal measure.
Get one if
- · Owners who can offer consistent daily company rather than long stretches alone
- · People happy to commit to daily combing and regular professional grooming
- · First-time owners wanting a small, affectionate, trainable companion
Think again if
- · Households with very young or boisterous children who may handle a fragile dog too roughly
- · Owners who are out of the house for long working hours regularly
- · Anyone hoping to avoid daily coat care or regular professional grooming